Cebu Police Deny Favoritism in Banilad Hit-and-Run Case, Cite Neutrality
Police in Cebu City have strongly refuted claims of favoritism in their handling of a recent hit-and-run incident in Barangay Banilad, emphasizing that officers acted with impartiality, adhered to established protocols, and provided support to all individuals involved. The case, which resulted in a fatality, has drawn public scrutiny, but authorities insist on the integrity of their response.
Official Statement on Neutrality
In a detailed statement, Police Lieutenant Colonel Jose Los Baños, the information officer for the Cebu City Police Office (CCPO), clarified that there was no bias in the police actions. "I want to make it clear that there was no favoritism. The PNP remained neutral," Los Baños stated. He explained that officers at the scene assisted both the victim and the driver, noting that even those at fault may require urgent medical attention, which was prioritized.
Challenges in Investigation and Medical Procedures
Los Baños highlighted that delays in certain investigative steps occurred when the individuals were transported to the hospital for emergency treatment. "The delay happened when they were brought to the hospital. When they were admitted to the emergency room, the police could no longer intervene because the hospital had to follow its medical procedures," he explained. This procedural boundary, he argued, was necessary to ensure proper care but temporarily hindered police work.
Additionally, he addressed limitations in assessing intoxication, stating that police officers are not qualified to declare someone drunk. "We cannot say that we are doctors who can declare someone drunk. It is different to say a person smells of alcohol than to conclude that they are intoxicated," Los Baños said. He noted that proving intoxication requires medical expertise and specialized equipment, which are not always immediately available at incident scenes.
Immediate Response and Future Improvements
Despite these challenges, Los Baños affirmed that first responders acted promptly by securing the scene, preparing examination requests, and coordinating with hospital staff. He also mentioned ongoing efforts to enhance future investigations through coordination with the Cebu City Government to procure breathalyzers for public hospitals, aiming to strengthen evidence collection in similar cases.
Background of the Incident
The hit-and-run occurred in the early hours of February 8, 2026, when 23-year-old entrepreneur Kingston Ralph Cheng was fatally struck by a speeding vehicle while walking toward his car parked along Paseo Saturnino near Maria Luisa Village in Banilad. The driver, 21-year-old Sean Andrew Pajarillo, fled the scene but lost control of his vehicle, crashing several meters away. Pajarillo, who sustained injuries, was taken to a hospital and later charged with reckless imprudence resulting in homicide and property damage. He is currently out on bail set at P72,000.
Appeal for Public Understanding
In conclusion, Los Baños appealed for public understanding, reiterating that police officers followed proper procedures and maintained neutrality throughout the response. He urged the community to trust in the ongoing investigation and the commitment of law enforcement to uphold justice without prejudice.
